How to install irrigation solenoids

Project Overview

A solenoid is an electronic valve used to automate your irrigation system. In this video, we will show you how to attach a solenoid to a tap or mains water line in your garden.Continue to step-by-step instructions

Step 1. Connect a converter to the brass ballpoint or tap

Step 2. Measure the PVC pipe to fit

Put the PVC pipe into the converter. Use the elbow fitting as a reference for where to cut - you will need to cut the pipe so it’s high enough to clear the ground. Make sure you leave enough room for the depth of your fitting. Mark with a pencil.

Step 3. Cut the PVC pipe with a hacksaw

Step 4. Measure and cut the second PVC pipe section

Put the pipe into the converter and add the elbow. Place the second piece of pipe into the elbow and measure where the solenoid will sit. Before you cut the pipe to size, remember the solenoid and pipe will need to fit under a cover, so take that into account when measuring.

Step 7. Use a spanner or multigrips to fasten tightly

Step 8. Prime and glue the joins on the PVC pipe and elbow

Make sure you are using a PVC primer and specific PVC glue for high-pressure pipe. Prime all the joiners to clean them and make the glue bind properly. Apply the high-pressure glue. It dries very fast so make sure you put the parts together quickly. Use the brush on the lid of the glue.

Step 9. Attach the solenoid using thread tape

Step 10. Fit the valve box over the solenoid and cut holes for the pipes

You will need to place a valve box over the solenoid to protect it from rain. Using tin snips, cut holes into the valve box to run the pipes out. The valve box has cut-out templates on it that you can use as a guide. Place it over the top of the solenoids. Once the rest of the pipes have been run through you can mulch up to the box to blend it into the garden.

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.

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